e-learning indicators

In 2004 the Flexible Learning Advisory Group (FLAG) sought to identify a small set of indicators that could be used to measure the uptake and use of e-learning and e-business in the national vocational education and training (VET) system and measure the impact of e-learning on VET clients and VET providers.

An environmental scan of Australian and international research and education agencies identified approximately 250 potential indicators of e-learning. Through consultation over a period of months these were progressively reduced to produce a short list of twelve indicators which best address issues related to the uptake, use and impact of e-learning.

Primary indicators of e-learning

Six indicators demonstrate the uptake and outcome of e-learning in the VET system.

1. % of VET unit enrolments that use e-learning.
2. % of VET providers offering units that use e-learning.
3. % of VET learners who through e-learning have increased skills and confidence in using information and communication technology (ICT).
4. % of VET learners who through e-learning have or expect to have improved employment outcomes.
5. % of VET clients who believe e-learning and e-business gave them flexibility in when, where and how they engaged with VET.
6. Client satisfaction with e-learning experiences in VET.

E-business indicators

Three indicators are related to the uptake and impact of e-business.

7. % of VET providers offering e-business client, support and administrative services.
8. % of VET clients using e-business client, support and administrative services offered by providers.
9. Client satisfaction with e-business experiences in VET.

Teaching and training practices

Three indicators are related to the uptake, use and outcomes of e-learning on VET teachers and trainers.

10. % of VET teachers/trainers delivering units that use e-learning.
11. % of VET teachers/trainers who through e-learning have changed teaching practices in the design, development and delivery of units.
12. % of VET teachers/trainers who believe increased access to e-learning resources has improved teaching and learning outcomes.

The process for capturing information against each indicator has been fully documented in a report on National e-learning Indicators. The more substantial list of Other e-learning Indicators is also made available to support training organisations and VET programs looking for indicators specifically relevant to their e-learning and e-business initiatives.

From 2008 these national indicators have been supplemented by additional indicators drawn from the 2008-2011 Australian Flexible Learning Framework Strategy which examine the use by and impact of e-learning on individuals, business and industry, training providers and the VET system.

Survey updates

Every year, we make minor modification to the surveys to ensure they are up to date and meet emerging needs. Most recently, the focus of the surveys has changed from asking questions not about if e-learning is being used ... but how e-learning is being used. This will provide insight into how practitioners and RTOs are using e-learning.